June 2, 2022 was the day that changed our family’s lives forever. At 32 years old, my sister Jennifer was diagnosed with stage 4 rectal cancer that has spread to her liver. The months following were a blur of scans, procedures, radiation, chemotherapy and the agonizing reality of cancer’s brutal defiance. In a short year and a half, Jen faced multiple surgeries to save her life including a colon and liver resection surgery.

Jennifer’s oncology team in Illinois has failed her in many ways, from denying her a life saving surgery, to telling her that she is not curable at 32 and further diagnostics and treatment would have no purpose.

Through the wonderful connections made within the cancer community, Jen has found a miraculous team of doctors at the City of Hope Hospital in California. Dr. Fong who has been treating Jen is one of the world’s most experienced and prestigious doctors in the cancer world and is hopeful about Jen’s treatment. After flying out to California for the first of major surgeries, Dr Fong has hand selected a medical team to help treat Jen. His team treats Jennifer with positivity, hope, and the loving care she, and all cancer patients, deserve.

Long term disability and Insurance is covering enough for major surgeries and basic necessities such as rent, groceries, and a car to get to and from appointments. But we are now faced with the reality that the only doctor in the world willing to save Jen’s life is located in California. Jen has gotten this far by being a good planner and saver, but no one can plan on a financial battle that is this long or aggressive. All proceeds donated will be going directly towards airfare, hotel stays, and now the raised cost of her medical insurance that has increased significantly. As the medical bills accumulate, the financial strain weighs heavy on a future that holds so much promise. Your support becomes not just a lifeline but a declaration of belief in a future where her laughter, kindness, and positivity can continue to enrich the lives of those around her.

Without the second opinion received by Dr Fong, Jennifer would have a very different story to tell. One without hope, compassion, and aggressive action and treatment to give her the best chance of beating this disease.

On behalf of the entire family, thank you for your consideration to donating to help save Jen's life. We cannot thank you enough.